Winter Travel Experience in Japan: Things You Need to Know

Winter in Japan is not only about the white snow covering the majestic mountains, but also brings unique experiences through each location, food and traditional cultural activities. From admiring the beautiful scenery to immersing in outdoor onsen, each destination has something special. Let's learn about the experience of traveling to Japan in winter to have the most complete and safest trip!

Traveling to Japan in winter is not only a time to admire the beauty of falling snowflakes or the poetic scenery of small villages, but also an opportunity for you to immerse yourself in the cozy atmosphere and enjoy attractive winter dishes. With the experience of traveling to Japan in winter, you will experience interesting things, from discovering unique cultures to enjoying the peace in the midst of white snow.

1. Characteristics of winter weather in Japan

Cold air in winter in Japan (Photo source: Collected)

Winter in Japan, which lasts from December to February, offers a completely different experience with cold weather and snow-covered landscapes.

In northern regions such as Hokkaido, winter usually starts in November and lasts longer, with snowfalls of up to 20 meters, creating spectacular landscapes. Average temperatures range from 5 to 10 degrees Celsius, but in the highlands, temperatures can drop below minus 10 degrees Celsius, bringing a feeling of cold.

However, in southern areas such as Kyushu or Okinawa, winter usually lasts until March and has a milder climate, with little snow and temperatures rarely falling below 0°C. Occasionally, these areas have warm sunny days, creating a pleasant atmosphere, ideal for those who do not like the cold.

2. Winter tourist destinations in Japan you should visit

2.1. Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji covered in white snow in winter (Photo source: Collected)

Mount Fuji in winter is an irresistible natural masterpiece, attracting visitors with its majestic scenery when the snow-capped peak stands out against the deep blue sky and reflects on the calm lakes below. Although winter here does not allow climbing, the experience of traveling to Japan in winter around Mount Fuji still brings many attractive activities.

You can admire the beauty of the mountain from Lake Kawaguchiko, Chureito Pagoda or other observation decks. Not only that, ski resorts such as Fujiten Snow Resort or Yeti Snow Resort offer the opportunity to experience the thrill, while the onsen hot springs in the area are the ideal place to relax, soak in the warm water and admire the beautiful winter scenery of the symbol of Japan.

2.2. Biei Blue Lake

Biei Blue Lake stands out in the middle of the white snow in winter (Photo source: Collected)

Amidst the snowy landscape, the Blue Pond in Biei Village appears like a magnificent fairy tale. Originally formed from a dam project on the Bieigawa River, the lake is blue due to the aluminum compounds in the water, creating a unique and mysterious landscape.

In winter, the branches are covered with snow and reflected on the calm lake surface, the scene here becomes more magical than ever. Coming to Biei at this time, visitors will be immersed in the beauty that is both quiet and brilliant, an unforgettable experience.

2.3. Shirakawa-go ancient village

Shirakawago Ancient Village - Fairytale village in the heart of Japan (Photo source: Collected)

Shirakawago, an ancient village located in the heart of Gifu Prefecture, Japan, is an ideal winter destination with a magical beauty like coming out of a fairy tale. Under the thick layer of white snow, the unique thatched-roof gassho-zukuri houses appear peacefully, surrounded by mountains.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakawago attracts visitors with its isolation from modern life, offering a peaceful and nostalgic space. Exploring the village in winter is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the timeless and magical beauty of Japanese nature.

2.4. Nabana no Sato Park

Nabana no Sato Park is sparkling in the winter weather (Photo source: Collected)

Nabana no Sato Flower Park in Mie Prefecture, Japan, is a popular winter destination. Famous for its magnificent light festival, with millions of colorful LED lights meticulously arranged, turning the park into a sparkling picture, with gardens and ponds glowing and magical.

Strolling through the splendid scenery, visitors can not only admire the natural beauty but also relax at the free foot spa in the cold winter air. Nabana no Sato offers a truly unique and memorable Japanese winter experience.

2.5. Ginzan Hot Springs, Yamagata

Experience the warm winter at Ginzan hot spring (Photo source: Collected)

Ginzan Onsen, located in Yamagata, is a hidden gem in the Japanese winter, offering a wonderful hot spring resort experience. Once a silver mine, Ginzan has been transformed into a hot spring resort with traditional ryokan lining both sides of the small stream.

When the white snow covers the ancient roofs and streets in winter, the scenery here becomes sparkling, bringing visitors back to ancient Japan. Especially, when night falls, Ginzan Onsen lights up the whole old town, creating a brilliant and romantic winter picture, known as one of the most beautiful night scenes in the Land of the Rising Sun.

3. What to eat when traveling to Japan in winter?

Warm dishes for Japanese winter days (Photo source: Collected)

Winter in Japan not only attracts tourists by the romantic white snow scene but also by the warm dishes with rich flavors. With the experience of traveling to Japan in winter, you cannot miss the following winter culinary quintessence:

• Miso Ramen: Ramen noodles with rich miso broth, pork, egg and vegetables. The rich flavor of miso on a cold day is sure to make you fall in love.
• Shabu-shabu: Thinly sliced ​​beef dipped in boiling broth, creating a sweet and tender taste, perfect for cozy evenings.
• Sukiyaki: Beef hotpot cooked with udon or soba noodles, has a rich, attractive flavor and is very nutritious - ideal for recharging energy when it's cold.
• Oden: A hot soup with a variety of ingredients like tofu, eggs, potatoes, and sausages. This dish is a great way to warm you from the inside out.

Winter in Japan brings wonderful experiences from snow-covered landscapes, unique winter festivals to warm, typical dishes. To make your trip more complete, don't forget to apply the above winter travel experiences in Japan! Let Vietravel accompany you to explore Japan this winter.

Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/kinh-nghiem-du-lich-nhat-ban-mua-dong-v15927.aspx